When my house was built 12 years ago, a builder grade fireplace was installed with a B-Vent since the fireplace is not against an outside wall. This fireplace didn't provide any heat, and actually made the whole house much colder. We use propane heat.
Upon the suggestion of a co-worker, I installed a vent-free fireplace and re-tiled the surround. We have had it for about six years now, and have had to have it serviced three times. It sure does kick out the heat, but I just can't stand the smell. When I walk past it, even when it's off, I can smell gas, yet the carbon monoxide detector has never gone off.
The vent-free box and logs were relatively inexpensive, and I completed the whole project including a wireless remote for under $1,000. We have always loved the open look, which is why we shyed away from a closed glass unit, but now I am thinking we should opt for a closed unit to improve efficiency. Our fireplace gets heavy use, as it is turned on almost every night from Nov - Feb. The fireplace is installed in the living room when is 17' x 24' with 14' ceilings, and open to the dining room, kitchen, and breakfast room.
I am ready to replace the unit with a vented fireplace. I do not see anyway to install a vented fireplace out the side, as it would have to go thru another room to get to an outside wall, so I think I would have to use the existing B-Vent, up the roof.
My current vent-free unit is 36" W x 36" H x 20" D. As I recall, there was more depth available, but I am not sure it is another foot. The most important features to me in order of importance:
- Heating capacity
- Realistic Look
- Efficiency
I have been searching the web to find the best brands, and plan on beginning my visit to fireplace shops this weekend. Can you please offer some recommendations, or what I should be looking for?
Upon the suggestion of a co-worker, I installed a vent-free fireplace and re-tiled the surround. We have had it for about six years now, and have had to have it serviced three times. It sure does kick out the heat, but I just can't stand the smell. When I walk past it, even when it's off, I can smell gas, yet the carbon monoxide detector has never gone off.
The vent-free box and logs were relatively inexpensive, and I completed the whole project including a wireless remote for under $1,000. We have always loved the open look, which is why we shyed away from a closed glass unit, but now I am thinking we should opt for a closed unit to improve efficiency. Our fireplace gets heavy use, as it is turned on almost every night from Nov - Feb. The fireplace is installed in the living room when is 17' x 24' with 14' ceilings, and open to the dining room, kitchen, and breakfast room.
I am ready to replace the unit with a vented fireplace. I do not see anyway to install a vented fireplace out the side, as it would have to go thru another room to get to an outside wall, so I think I would have to use the existing B-Vent, up the roof.
My current vent-free unit is 36" W x 36" H x 20" D. As I recall, there was more depth available, but I am not sure it is another foot. The most important features to me in order of importance:
- Heating capacity
- Realistic Look
- Efficiency
I have been searching the web to find the best brands, and plan on beginning my visit to fireplace shops this weekend. Can you please offer some recommendations, or what I should be looking for?
